Target pulls fidget spinners over lead concerns

Two fidget spinners sold at Target tested well over the legal limit for lead.

Author:
Sean Rossman, USA TODAY , TEGNA

Published:
3:14 PM EST November 11, 2017

Target is pulling two fidget spinners from its store shelves and website after a report found they contained lead levels above federal regulations for children's toys.

The report released Thursday by public advocacy group U.S. PIRG found Fidget Wild Premium spinners — in both brass and metal — contained lead levels ranging from 520 parts per million (ppm) to 33,000 ppm.

The process to remove the two fidget spinners from Target stores began Friday. The company claims the products did not break any guidelines because they fall under a different "general use" product standard. But, after the company reviewed the products, it decided to pull them anyway.

"While these two products comply with all CPSC guidelines for fidget spinners, based on the concerns raised, we’re removing them from our assortment," read a Target statement. "Additionally, we’re working closely with our vendors to ensure all of the fidget spinners carried at Target meet the CPSC’s guidelines for children’s products."

Target advertised the fidget spinners to children 14 years old and older, PIRG said.

The company could not provide an estimate on how many of the fidget spinners will have to be removed from stores.

PIRG, a research group which prides itself as "an independent voice for consumers," said Saturday it was pleased with the store's decision. It added, in a statement, the CPSC and the toys' supplier Bulls i Toy should recall the products. It's also calling on children and adults to stop using the toys.

Children exposed to lead have an increased risk for damage to the brain and nervous system as well as slow growth and development, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Lead is often found in things such as paint and gasoline, the CDC notes, but it can also be found in air, food and water. If you think your child might have been exposed to lead, contact your child's health care provider.

Bulls i Toy did not immediately return USA TODAY's request for comment.